Skilling Women: Honouring Rajmata Ahilyabai’s Legacy
Celebrating 300 Years of Courage and Service
To mark the 300th birth anniversary of Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar, the National Skill Training Institute for Women (NSTI-W), Indore organized a special event. The programme honoured her values of justice, public service, and women’s empowerment—ideals that still inspire India today.
Minister Jayant Chaudhary Pays Tribute
Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, shared a heartfelt message. It was read by Ms. Trishaljit Sethi, Director General (Training), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
The Minister noted, “Rajmata’s leadership reminds us that courage and vision can redefine governance.” He added that initiatives like NSTIs, PMKVY, NIESBUD, and the Skill India Digital Hub are modern steps toward her vision. Furthermore, he welcomed the Madhya Pradesh Government’s recent decision to launch a training initiative in her name.
A Symbol of Empowered India
Reinforcing the government’s message of “Kushal Nari, Sashakt Nari”, the event echoed a strong national commitment to women’s empowerment. The Minister stressed that when women gain economic power, they uplift not just their families but the entire society.
Indore MP Shankar Lalwani Applauds Skilling Mission
Shri Shankar Lalwani, Member of Parliament from Indore, attended as the chief guest. He described Rajmata as a symbol of compassionate leadership. He also praised the central government’s focus on women’s development—especially efforts to ensure access to education, skills, and entrepreneurship.
According to him, “Rural women are becoming self-reliant through skilling. This mirrors the same entrepreneurial energy Rajmata encouraged centuries ago.”
NSTI-W: A Hub for Women’s Skill Training
Director General Ms. Trishaljit Sethi highlighted the significance of hosting the celebration at NSTI-W, Indore. She said the institute plays a vital role in India’s mission to empower women through vocational education.
She added that flagship schemes like PMKVY, Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS), NIESBUD, and NSTIs are offering women access to skill development and sustainable livelihoods. “The real-life stories shared today reflect Rajmata’s legacy in action,” she noted.
Skilling in Madhya Pradesh – The Numbers Speak
Ms. Hena Usman, Joint Secretary at MSDE, explained how the Ministry is building a strong skilling ecosystem. Through programs like SANKALP, STRIVE, PM Janman, PM SVANidhi, and PM Surya Ghar, over 22,000 individuals have been trained in Madhya Pradesh.
She said the outcomes are real: more than 2,400 enterprises registered and 2,800+ employment opportunities created in the state alone.
Stories of Change and Empowerment
The event featured an inspiring exhibition. It showcased products and success stories of women trained under schemes like PMKVY, PM Vishwakarma, JSS, NIESBUD, and NSTI-W. Many of them came from rural and low-income backgrounds. Through skill training, they transformed their lives.
A Tribute That Inspires the Future
The celebration began with a cultural performance and ended with a walkthrough of the exhibition. It was more than just a tribute—it was a call to continue Rajmata’s mission in today’s world. The event perfectly embodied the message:
“Kushal Nari, Sashakt Bharat” — A skilled woman is the strength of a strong India.